RYA launches new Active Marina Programme

In a bid to support Marina’s across the country develop activity programmes for berth holders, the RYA has developed its new Active Marina programme.

The event based programme incorporates three aspects; training, cruising and social activities. The training element looks to support a programme of workshop style Training opportunities for berth holders to increase confidence and competence out on the water. The cruising aspect looks to develop activities such as cruises in company to expand people’s horizons and build confidence, whilst the social element seeks to assist with the formation and growth of Berth Holder groups.

Guy Malpas, RYA Yachting Development Officer who is responsible for running the new programme explains more: 'The Active Marina programme aims to encourage and support increased berth holder activity through partnering with Marinas, RYA Recognised Training Centres, Berth Holder groups and Yacht Clubs to provide a new or enhanced Training, Cruising and Social programme.

'The objective is to get berth holders using their boats more often by increasing confidence and competence through a number of practical and shore based workshops throughout the season, run by RYA Recognised Training Centres and instructors. There would also be some events including cruises in company and social events to enable berth holders to meet others and find like-minded families and crews in order develop an informal / ‘virtual club’ feel.'

So far there are some 18 marinas across the country looking to become engaged in the programme in 2011 including the likes of MDL, Dean & Reddyhoff, Castle and Premier Marinas with whom we are looking at ways to develop the training, cruising and social aspects for their berth holders.

One of the Marinas that have already developed an activity programme in partnership with the RYA’s Active Marina programme is MDL’s Woolverstone Marina. Situated on the picturesque River Orwell just South of Ipswich the marina has set out a series of activities and workshops commencing mid-May including:

• Manoeuvring practise in the marina
• Crew training and development days
• Partners day
• Locking in and out practise
• Seamanship skills
• Local pilotage
• Basic navigation and more

At the end of the season the marina has also organised an end of season Cruise and dinner with special guest Tom Cunliffe, one of sailing’s biggest personalities, author, and prizewinning TV and radio presenter.

'The activities at Woolverstone Marina give you an idea of what the programme is all about and we look forward to more marinas putting together similar plans going forward', concluded Guy.

To find out more about the Active Marina programme contact Guy Malpas by email at RYA website

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